Utah Jazz Poised to Land Cameron Boozer at No. 2, Clippers Eye Mikel Brown in Highly Anticipated 2026 NBA Draft

The 2026 NBA Draft class is generating considerable buzz, with a projected top tier of talent expected to reshape franchises. The Washington Wizards are positioned to select AJ Dybantsa as the first overall pick, a dominant 6-foot-9 wing from BYU who led men’s Division I in scoring as a freshman. Dybantsa averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and shot 33.1% from three-point range, showcasing a muscular 220-pound frame and a 42-inch vertical leap. His two-way potential is deemed the highest in the draft, with a fierce offensive game focused on paint attacks and a reliable midrange shot. Despite a sometimes-sagging defense due to heavy offensive workload at BYU, Dybantsa is recognized for his intelligence, passing ability, and strong team reputation, offering the Wizards a franchise-altering talent.

Following Dybantsa, the Utah Jazz are projected to make a significant move by selecting Duke freshman Cameron Boozer with the second pick. Boozer, a 6-foot-8, 250-pound power forward, was the unanimous Player of the Year in college basketball, drawing comparisons to historical figures like Larry Bird and Kevin Durant. His collegiate performance included averages of 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and an impressive 39.1% from beyond the arc. Boozer is characterized by his consistent play, advanced feel for navigating traffic, and an almost unstoppable second jump. He proved to be a formidable defender at Duke and is noted for his ability to connect teammates on the floor, embodying a winning mentality. Advanced analytics models have suggested Boozer could contend for the top overall pick in what is considered one of the deepest draft classes of the 21st century. The Jazz’s potential selection aligns with the Ainge family’s drafting history, which often favors reliable talent, and follows a reportedly successful workout with the team, coupled with existing connections to Duke coach Jon Scheyer.

The Memphis Grizzlies, holding the third overall pick, are in a fortunate position to acquire a franchise-changing talent. Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound guard, is projected to land in Memphis, despite some projections placing him higher. Peterson averaged 20.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and shot 38.2% on 165 three-point attempts during his freshman season. His "slippage" to third is attributed to a somewhat inconsistent collegiate tenure, where his statistical profile, including a 114.1 offensive rating, did not definitively separate him from other top prospects. However, Peterson’s size, sleek attacking style, and confident shooting form indicate potential to become one of the NBA’s elite shooting guards by 2030. The Grizzlies stand to benefit from his offensive capabilities.

The Chicago Bulls are anticipated to bolster their roster with North Carolina freshman Caleb Wilson at the fourth spot. Wilson, a 6-foot-9, 210-pound forward, posted averages of 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and shot 25.9% from three-point range before his season was cut short by two separate hand injuries. Despite the injury setbacks, Wilson is viewed as a prospect with elite athleticism, a relentless work ethic, upper-echelon defensive potential, NBA-ready length, and an unyielding mindset. There is speculation that Wilson could ultimately emerge as the best player in this stacked class. His selection would mark a significant win for the Bulls, who have sought a player with his rare combination of attributes, positioning him as a cornerstone for the franchise’s future return to postseason contention.

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At the fifth overall pick, the Los Angeles Clippers are considering Louisville freshman Mikel Brown, a 6-foot-4, 190-pound guard. Brown’s draft stock at this position remains a "guessing game" according to evaluators, with the Clippers potentially opting for a curveball pick. Brown, who averaged 18.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and shot 34.4% from three-point range, was a dynamic scorer prior to college and possesses arguably the highest upside among guards in this range. He led the gold medal-winning FIBA U19 team in 2025. His lone collegiate season at Louisville was hampered by a back issue, necessitating a "reboot." Brown is noted for his strong shooting base, explosive penetration, and ability to elevate against stronger competition. His draft range is considered to be between fifth and tenth overall, with a crucial week of pre-draft workouts influencing his final position.

The Brooklyn Nets, holding the sixth pick, are projected to select Arkansas freshman Bryce Acuff, a 6-foot-2, 185-pound guard. Acuff, who averaged 23.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and an impressive 44% from three-point range, has drawn comparisons to Jalen Brunson due to his size and shot creation. He is described as a tenacious player who excels at hunting shots, exploiting defenders, and willing his team to victory. Acuff led college basketball by averaging 24.3 points against ranked opponents last season. While acknowledged as a defensive liability, his offensive contributions are expected to significantly outweigh any drawbacks. For a Nets franchise currently in flux, Acuff represents a potential star who could inject much-needed talent.

The Sacramento Kings are projected to select Illinois freshman Jayden Wagler with the seventh pick. Wagler, a 6-foot-5, 188-pound guard, has seen a rapid ascent in his draft stock, moving from the 150th prospect out of high school to a top-10 lock as a one-and-done player. He averaged 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and shot 39.7% from three-point range. Wagler possesses a good release point on his jumper and can contribute offensively without always having the ball. He is considered to have ideal point guard size for the NBA, though he will need to add significant strength. His finishing around the rim requires development, but his playmaking portfolio is expected to grow. Wagler is viewed as a prospect highly unlikely to "flop."

Michigan’s junior center B.J. Mara is projected to go eighth to the Atlanta Hawks. The 7-foot-3, 260-pound big man, who previously played as a role player at UCLA, has undergone a significant transformation, averaging 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and shooting 30% from three-point range. Mara’s imposing physical presence, including a 9-foot-9 standing reach, and improved spatial awareness make him a coveted prospect in an NBA landscape where big men are gaining prominence. The Hawks are seen as a shrewd destination, with his defensive attributes—windmill arms and tough play—fitting well with coach Quin Snyder’s system. Mara is expected to add muscle and could develop into a significant contributor.

The Dallas Mavericks are projected to select Houston freshman Chris Flemings with the ninth pick. Flemings, a 6-foot-3, 183-pound point guard, averaged 16.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and shot 38.7% from three-point range. His immediate impact as a freshman at Houston, a program known for Kelvin Sampson’s demanding system, has drawn serious consideration from multiple teams. Flemings plays with a fearless yet controlled approach, capable of reaching any spot on the court and exhibiting a strong will to succeed. He is adept at drawing contact, rebounding, and maintaining defensive intensity—a mandatory trait at Houston. Although the Mavericks are not in dire need of a point guard, Flemings’s potential could prove to be a valuable asset for a franchise aiming for the top of the Western Conference.

Rounding out the top ten, the Milwaukee Bucks are projected to select Alabama freshman Tre Philon. The 6-foot-3, 175-pound guard averaged 22 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 39.9% from three-point range. Philon’s range is considered wide, but his "blitzing speed, devilish playmaking, and nothing-loath mindset" as a passer make him an attractive prospect. Despite a slender build, he effectively draws contact and possesses rapid acceleration. Philon is capable of scoring at all three levels and is expected to benefit from a professional offensive scheme that emphasizes his spacing acuity. The Bucks have shown interest, and Philon could provide an exciting injection of talent as the franchise potentially transitions into a new era.

Further into the lottery, Michigan senior Khristian Lendeborg, a 6-foot-9, 241-pound forward, is projected to go 11th to the Golden State Warriors. Lendeborg, who averaged 15.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and shot 37.2% from three-point range, is considered one of the most complete players in the draft. His age (24 later this year) is cited as the primary reason for his projection outside the top seven. Lendeborg’s athleticism, size, strength, shot-making, passing, rebounding, and selflessness suggest a strong chance at becoming a long-term NBA starter. For the Warriors, he represents a Day 1 impact player, a preferable option over a riskier prospect during the latter stages of Steph Curry’s career.

The Oklahoma City Thunder, known for their deep roster, are projected to take Tennessee freshman Jalen Ament at pick 12. Ament, a 6-foot-10, 211-pound forward, averaged 16.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and shot 33.3% from three-point range. His stock varies widely among teams, but his NBA size and untapped potential make him an appealing "swing" for the Thunder, who can afford to develop him over time. Arizona freshman Koa Burries, a 6-foot-4, 215-pound guard, is projected 13th to the Miami Heat. Burries, who averaged 16.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and shot 39.1% from three-point range, is a quiet but confident player who can defend multiple positions and contribute both on and off the ball. His potential represents a dream scenario for the Heat. Rounding out the lottery, Michigan sophomore Morez Johnson Jr., a 6-foot-9, 250-pound forward, is projected 14th to the Charlotte Hornets. Johnson Jr. averaged 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and shot 34.3% from three-point range. He plays bigger than his frame suggests and is expected to be an immediate contributor, known for his unselfishness, rebounding, and tough play.

The remainder of the first round features a mix of high-upside projects, seasoned collegiate players, and international talents. Texas Tech sophomore Jaden Anderson, a 6-foot-1, 180-pound point guard with a 41.5% three-point shooting clip, is projected 15th to the Chicago Bulls, offering a confident shooter to pair with Caleb Wilson. Washington freshman Dominik Steinbach, a 6-foot-10, 248-pound German big man, is projected 16th to the Memphis Grizzlies, offering exceptional measurables and defensive discipline. Mexico’s Karim Lopez, a 6-foot-8, 222-pound wing playing in New Zealand, is slated 17th to the Oklahoma City Thunder as a project with significant size and rebounding prowess, marking the potential first Mexican-born first-round pick. Baylor sophomore Kon Knueppel (18th to Charlotte), Iowa senior Jackson Stirtz (19th to Toronto), Santa Clara freshman Ty Graves (20th to San Antonio), Stanford freshman K.J. Okorie (21st to Detroit), Arizona freshman Kooper Peat (22nd to Philadelphia), Houston freshman Jay Cenac (23rd to Atlanta), UConn senior Oumar Reed (24th to New York), Kentucky sophomore Jasper Quaintance (25th to L.A. Lakers), Texas junior Ashton Swain (26th to Denver), North Carolina junior Artur Veesaar (27th to Boston), Iowa State senior D.J. Jefferson (28th to Minnesota), Spanish guard Sergio de Larrea (29th to Cleveland), and St. John’s senior Ugonna Ejiofor (30th to Dallas) complete the first round. This diverse group underscores the depth of the 2026 class, offering a blend of immediate impact players and long-term developmental prospects for NBA franchises.

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